Performing Arts (Acting, Dance, Theatre Production) Degree Guide

The performing arts bring stories to life, connect cultures, and challenge perspectives.

Whether your passion lies in acting for stage or screen, contemporary dance, musical theatre, or behind-the-scenes work in theatre production, pursuing a degree in performing arts can be an inspiring and rewarding path.

This guide offers in-depth information for students interested in studying Acting, Dance, or Theatre Production, with a primary focus on the United Kingdom, followed by a comparative look at opportunities across Europe, Australia, New Zealand, Canada, and the United States.

Why Study Performing Arts?

Performing arts programs prepare students for careers in stage, screen, production, choreography, and more. A well-rounded degree offers:

• Practical training in acting, voice, movement, dance, direction, or technical theatre.

• Creative development, encouraging originality, confidence, and critical thinking.

• Industry insight, with opportunities to perform, produce, or collaborate on real-world projects.

• Professional preparation, from audition techniques to portfolio building and networking.

Studying Performing Arts in the United Kingdom

The UK is one of the most respected and historic centres for performing arts education. With London's West End, a thriving film and TV industry, and a rich theatre culture, students benefit from direct exposure to the professional world.

Top Schools for Acting, Dance, and Theatre Production in the UK

Acting

• Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA) – World-renowned conservatoire offering exceptional actor training.

• London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art (LAMDA) – Specialises in classical acting and screen performance.

• Guildhall School of Music & Drama – Combines performance and academic rigour with strong industry links.

• Royal Conservatoire of Scotland – Offers diverse acting programs with a strong reputation across the UK and Europe.

Dance

• Trinity Laban Conservatoire of Music and Dance – Known for contemporary dance and choreography.

• London Contemporary Dance School (LCDS) – Innovative and performance-based education in modern dance.

• Northern School of Contemporary Dance – A leading institution for practical dance training and performance.

Theatre Production

• Royal Central School of Speech and Drama – Offers technical theatre, lighting design, set design, and stage management.

• Rose Bruford College – Highly respected for theatre production arts and design courses.

• Royal Welsh College of Music & Drama – Known for both production arts and performance training.

Why the UK?

• Industry access: From stage to screen, students have access to an active professional ecosystem.

• Hands-on learning: Programs typically include regular performances, workshops, and placements.

• Conservatoire and university options: Choose between practical conservatoire training and academically rigorous degree programs.

• Cultural richness: Students benefit from a theatre culture rooted in Shakespeare and continuously evolving with modern works.

Entry Requirements

• Audition or portfolio: Most programs require live or recorded auditions for performance courses or portfolios for production/design.

• Academic transcripts: A-levels, IB, or equivalent.

• Personal statement: Explaining your passion and goals in the performing arts.

• English language proficiency: IELTS, TOEFL, or equivalent for international students.

Studying Performing Arts in Other Countries

Europe (Outside the UK)

Europe offers culturally diverse and experimental approaches to performing arts, with historic institutions and avant-garde training.

France

• Conservatoire National Supérieur d’Art Dramatique (CNSAD) – Prestigious training in drama, heavily focused on classical theatre.

• Académie Internationale de la Danse – Offers dance education in both classical and contemporary styles.

Germany

• Known for avant-garde theatre and opera, with institutions like the Hochschule für Schauspielkunst Ernst Busch in Berlin.

• Offers tuition-free or low-cost public education, often taught in German.

The Netherlands & Belgium

• Renowned for physical theatre and interdisciplinary performance art.

• Institutions like Toneelacademie Maastricht and ArtEZ University of the Arts are respected for their innovation and international programs.

Language Tip: While many programs are in local languages, some offer English-taught degrees. Knowing the local language is helpful, especially for performance work.

Australia

Australia offers globally competitive training in theatre, dance, and production with a strong focus on industry-readiness.

• Top Schools:

  • National Institute of Dramatic Art (NIDA) – Australia’s leading centre for acting and technical theatre.

  • Victorian College of the Arts (VCA) – Offers a variety of performance and production degrees.

  • Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts (WAAPA) – Recognised for acting, musical theatre, and stagecraft.

• Highlights:

  • Courses often include professional placements and public performances.

  • Opportunities to work in Australia’s growing television and film industries.

New Zealand

New Zealand’s performing arts education is known for its close-knit creative communities and growing international profile.

• Notable Institutions:

  • Toi Whakaari: New Zealand Drama School – The leading drama conservatoire in the country.

  • New Zealand School of Dance – Offers advanced training in both contemporary and classical dance.

  • Unitec Institute of Technology – Known for practical acting and production design courses.

• Benefits:

  • Strong support networks.

  • Opportunities in local film and theatre, with links to internationally known productions.

Canada

Canada provides well-rounded performing arts education with exposure to multicultural creative environments.

• Leading Schools:

  • National Theatre School of Canada (NTS) – Offers intensive bilingual training in acting and production.

  • Toronto Metropolitan University (formerly Ryerson) – Strong programs in performance, dance, and production.

  • York University and Concordia University – Offer a mix of creative and academic performing arts programs.

• Strengths:

  • Bilingual opportunities (English and French).

  • Access to local theatre, film, and arts festivals.

United States

The United States is a global leader in performing arts education, with access to Broadway, Hollywood, and a deep-rooted theatre tradition.

• Top Institutions:

  • Juilliard School – World-famous conservatoire for music, drama, and dance.

  • New York University (Tisch School of the Arts) – Known for cutting-edge acting and dance programs.

  • Carnegie Mellon University – Offers strong acting and technical theatre programs.

  • California Institute of the Arts (CalArts) – Emphasises experimental and interdisciplinary work.

• What Sets the US Apart:

  • Access to professional networks and high-calibre performance venues.

  • Integration of training with academic theory and arts business knowledge.

  • Strong alumni networks and career support services.

Cost Consideration: Education in the US can be expensive, but scholarships and financial aid are widely available, especially at private institutions.

What to Consider When Choosing a Performing Arts Program

• Type of training: Do you want conservatoire-style practical immersion or a broader university degree with academic components?

• Facilities and performance opportunities: Access to theatres, rehearsal studios, and production labs is crucial.

• Professional exposure: Look for schools with ties to professional companies, agents, and industry events.

• Interdisciplinary options: Some schools allow for crossover between acting, dance, and production.

• Location: Choose a city or region with an active arts scene to build networks and gain experience.

Final Thoughts

Studying performing arts abroad can be a transformative journey, creatively and personally. The UK offers some of the most prestigious and immersive training options, particularly in classical and contemporary performance. However, exceptional institutions exist across Europe, Australia, New Zealand, Canada, and the USA, each offering unique cultural perspectives and professional pathways.

Whichever country you choose, invest time in preparing your audition or portfolio, researching the ethos of each school, and understanding the broader creative industry you hope to enter. The right education can launch a lifelong career in theatre, film, dance, or production - on stage, behind the scenes, or in front of the camera.